Skip to content

This Simple Wooden Platform Has a Poignant History on Capitol Hill

By D.A. Banks

[jwp-video n=”1″]

The catafalque, draped in black cloth, was hastily built in 1865 to support President Abraham Lincoln’s coffin as it lay in state in the Rotunda. Since then, the catafalque has been used to honor presidents, generals, the remains of unknown soldiers and even civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks.

Recent Stories

Reagan National airport safety looms as appropriations issue

House clears whole milk for school menus

House GOP unveils draft health bill package

From electric typewriters to AI, constituent engagement has changed

One year in, what do these newcomers think of Congress?

In the Spotlight: Marilyn Strickland